How to Protect Storm Damaged Trees

Posted on March 15, 2023 by Completetree

When storm season rolls around each year, the strong winds and heavy rains can wreak havoc on trees. While some species are less vulnerable to storm damage than others, it’s important to take steps to protect your trees from storm-related destruction. Taking a proactive approach when it comes to tree care can help ensure that your trees stay healthy and safe during stormy weather.

Continue reading to learn some tips on how to protect storm damaged trees and prevent further harm in the seasons to come.

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Recommended Maintenance for Trees With Storm Damage

1. Inspect Your Trees: Storm damage can often go unnoticed until signs of distress become visible, so it’s important to regularly inspect your trees for storm damage. Look for broken branches, torn bark and uprooted roots. If you notice any of these signs, contact a tree service right away to assess the extent of the storm damage and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

2. Prune Branches: Pruning storm-damaged trees is essential in order to prevent further harm from occurring. Be sure to prune away any hanging or broken branches that may be hazardous if they fall off during another storm. Pruning should also be done when storm damaged trees are diseased or structurally unsound, as this will help protect the tree from further damage.

3. Support Uprooted Trees: If storm winds cause a tree to be uprooted, support the tree with stakes or cables to keep it upright and reduce additional stress. If the tree is mostly intact but leaning over, mullein can be used to restore its original shape. In some cases, storm-damaged trees may need more intensive treatment and should be assessed by a professional tree service for possible removal.

4. Provide Care: Once storm damage has been addressed, your storm damaged trees will require extra care in order to survive. Deep watering during periods of drought can help prevent weakened roots from drying out completely and dying off altogether. Mulching around the base of your storm-damaged trees can also help retain moisture and reduce weeds.

Be Prepared For Storm Seasons in Indiana

When storm season arrives each year, it’s important to take steps to protect your trees from storm-related damage. By following these tips on how to protect storm damaged trees, you can keep your trees healthy and safe during stormy weather. If the storm damage is extensive or if you simply need additional advice on tree care, contact a professional tree service for assistance.

Following these tips on how to protect storm damaged trees can help make sure that your property is safe from storm-related destruction. Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed Indianapolis tree service at an affordable price. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Tree Mulch Maintenance Tips For Fall

Posted on November 8, 2022 by Completetree

As the weather cools down and the leaves begin to change color, it’s time to start thinking about fall tree care. One important task is mulch maintenance. Mulch helps protect tree roots from extreme temperatures, keeps moisture in the soil, and provides nutrients for the tree.

Continue below to learn what you need to know about mulching maintenance in the fall and winter season, plus who to trust for licensed tree services in your area.

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How to Mulch Trees in the Fall

Below are some top tips for maintaining your tree’s mulch in the fall season. By following these tips, you can help your tree stay healthy and strong through the fall and winter.

Every year, tree roots grow and expand. As they do, the mulch around the tree can start to break down and become compacted. This can reduce the amount of air and water that can reach tree roots. To prevent this, add a layer of fresh mulch around your tree in the fall.

If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, you may need to replace your tree’s mulch more often. Heavy rains can wash away nutrients and compact the soil.

Fall is a good time to check the depth of your tree’s mulch. Mulch beds should be no more than 3 inches deep. Any deeper and it can start to suffocate tree roots.

Best Types of Mulch for Trees

Mulch is an important part of tree care. It helps protect trees from extreme temperatures, keeps roots moist, and prevents weeds from growing. There are many different types of mulch, so it’s important to choose the right one for your tree. Here are some of the best types of mulch for trees:

► Wood Chips: Wood chips are a great type of mulch for trees. They help insulate the roots from extreme temperatures, retain moisture, and prevent weed growth.

► Bark: Bark is another great type of mulch for trees. It helps protect the roots from extreme temperatures and prevents weed growth.

► Compost: Compost is a great type of mulch for trees. It helps retain moisture and provides nutrients for the tree.

► Straw: Straw is a great type of mulch for trees. It helps insulate the roots from extreme temperatures and retains moisture.

► Grass Clippings: Grass clippings are a great type of mulch for trees. They help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Are you looking for reputable tree care in the Indy areas? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We offer tree removal, tree stump solutions, tree trimming, pruning, and more for both residential and commercial customers.

Common Tree Problems That Happen in the Fall

Posted on October 11, 2022 by Completetree

Trees play an important role in our environment. They help clean the air we breathe and provide homes for wildlife. Trees also add beauty to our landscape. But, like all living things, trees need care to stay healthy. Unfortunately, with every passing season comes the risk of certain tree problems, from disease and pest outbreaks to undernourishment, animal tampering, environmental discourse, and more.

This season, be sure to keep your eyes on your landscaping trees. Do not let them become victim to some of the most common tree problems that happen in the Fall. Continue below to learn which problems you should be watching out for.

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Typical Threats to Landscaping Trees This Time of Year

Most trees experience the majority of their problems during the Fall season. Many of these problems are caused by the changing weather and environmental conditions. Here are some of the most common tree problems that occur during Fall:

Leaf Drop

This is one of the most common problems experienced by trees during Fall. As temperatures cool and days grow shorter, trees begin to drop their leaves. While this is a natural process, it can be problematic for trees that are already struggling. Leaf drop can cause further stress and damage to the tree and can even lead to death in some cases.

Disease

Fall is also a prime time for diseases to take hold in trees. Many diseases thrive in the cooler, wetter conditions of Fall. If a tree is already weak or stressed, it is more likely to succumb to disease. Common diseases that affect trees during Fall include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.

Pests

Pests are also a major problem for trees during Fall. Many pests, such as aphids, mites, and scale insects, are attracted to the sweet nectar produced by trees during this time of year. These pests can cause serious damage to trees and can even kill them in some cases.

Wind and Frost damage

Strong winds are common during Fall, and they can cause serious damage to trees. High winds can snap branches, uproot trees, and topple weak or dead trees. Frost can also cause serious damage to trees during Fall. Frost can kill leaves, branches, and even the entire tree in some cases. It is important to protect trees from frost damage by providing them with adequate water and mulch.

Tree Care Tips

Here are some tips on how to keep your trees healthy:

▶ Water your trees regularly. Trees need at least 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on the weather. The best time to water your trees is in the early morning hours before the sun gets too hot.

▶ Mulch your trees. Mulching helps retain moisture in the soil and keeps roots cool in the summer months. Apply a layer of mulch around the tree base but be sure not to pile it too high against the trunk.

▶ Prune your trees regularly. Pruning helps remove dead or diseased branches and encourages new growth. Be sure to prune your trees during their dormant season (winter for most trees).

▶ Watch for pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases, such as discolored leaves or branches. If you see something suspicious, contact a certified arborist for help.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your trees healthy and looking their best! Need some professional tree care? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed Indianapolis tree service at an affordable price. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Do I Need to Water My Trees?

Posted on September 30, 2022 by Completetree

One of the most important parts of taking care of your trees is to make sure they have adequate water. This is especially true for newly planted trees and young trees. Tree watering is an essential factor in the health and longevity of your landscaping trees; and since trees provide a wide range of benefits and increase property value, it is in your best interest as a homeowner to invest more time and care into your property. It would be difficult to suggest an exact amount of watering for your trees, but with this helpful guide, you will have the knowledge necessary to grow happy, healthy trees.

Continue reading to learn about tree watering, plus where to look for professional tree care solutions when you need it.

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Tree Watering Tips

New or Young Trees

A newly planted tree will require a different level of tree care and watering compared to an older tree. After a new tree is planted, it is important to water it immediately. Continue watering regularly over the next two years of its life. During this time, young trees are exerting a lot of energy to establish strong root systems in the soil. Spring and summer will call for more water than fall since your young tree will have a harder time dealing with drought and heat.

Mulching your trees helps to keep the soil moist and protect your tree’s roots from damage. As for watering, keep in mind that too much water can be just as harmful as not having enough. Soggy soil is too saturated, while damp soil still allows adequate oxygen to permeate the soil and feed the root system. So, it is important to use just the right amount to keep your trees in good health.

How to Water a Tree

It is important to water a tree correctly. Deeply water them for one minute with a garden hose. Avoid using sprinklers since wet bark can be damaging and problematic to a tree. How often you should do this depends on the amount of moisture in the soil. To check, use your garden trowel to penetrate the soil 2 inches deep. Pry the soil back, creating a small narrow trench. Then simply feel the soil and assess how moist it is. If it is dry, it will require more water. If it is wet or damp. It is good for the day!

Are you looking for Fall and winter tree care service for your landscaping trees? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured Indianapolis tree services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

4 Topsoil Problems That Can Negatively Affect Tree Health

Posted on July 11, 2022 by Completetree

If you are having trouble with your newly-planted or transplanted landscaping trees, it could be due to poor soil conditions. It is important for soil to retain the proper pH levels in order to be conducive to tree growth and ongoing health. Continue reading to learn about the top 4 most common soil problems, including what you can do about them.

Why You Should Mulch Your Trees Every Spring and Winter

Posted on February 23, 2022 by Completetree

Winter is here, and the Spring season is next, so let’s talk about the importance of mulching your trees. Continue below to learn why tree mulching is so vital, not only to the survival of your trees, but also for the curb appeal of your property!

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Mulching is a Vital Part of Tree Care

Mulch is a man-made product generally composed of organic materials like wood chips, pine needles, manure, and other types of compost. But it can also be made from non-organic materials like rock, stone, geo-textile fabrics, and pulverized rubber. When applied properly, mulch allows soil to retain sufficient levels of moisture. This not only improves the condition of the soil, but it does also so much more!

The Visible Benefits of Tree Mulching:

☑ Promotes overall tree health
☑ Controls weed growth
☑ Insulates soil
☑ Protects tree roots from extreme temperatures
☑ Prevents certain plant diseases
☑ Improves soil aeration and drainage
☑ Gives landscaping a well-groomed look
☑ Mulch decomposition improves soil fertility

The Best Times of Year to Mulch Your Trees

Trees should be mulched at the start of spring, after the ground has thawed from a frozen state. Trees should also be mulched at the start of winter before the ground freezes through. Mulching is an important part of the tree care process, so be sure to stay current on your program. You can choose from a wide selection of mulches, ranging in color, texture, shape, and more. Talk to your trusted Indianapolis tree service provider for recommendations on tree mulching practices for your property. Don’t forget to mulch your shrubs and bushes too!

Tree Protection in Winter

Aside from pruning and mulching, there are several other initiatives you can take on to ensure wintertime survival and optimal spring tree growth. Such undertakings include cabling and bracing, bark repair, integrated pest management, routine inspection, and even dead or hazardous tree removal.

Are you concerned about the condition of your landscaping trees? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed Indianapolis Indiana tree service and affordable price. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout central Indiana.

FAQS About Tree Care in the Fall

Posted on October 5, 2021 by Completetree

Just because summer is behind us doesn’t mean that our landscaping trees are through being cared for. In fact, right now is a prime time to tend to your trees. One of the most important things you can do for trees is care for them through all the seasons of the year. Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about fall tree care to learn what you need to do this season for your landscaping trees.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Tree Care

Do I Need to Mulch a Tree in the Fall?

Mulch is not just necessary in the spring and summer; it is also highly impactful to soil and tree growth conditions in the fall. Be sure to mulch around the base of your trees, around 2 to 3 inches deep, to keep soil moist and protected all winter long.

Do I Need to Water a Mature Tree?

Mature trees have slowed in growth, making them more vulnerable to the hazards in their surrounding environment this time of year. They are more susceptible to pest infestations, diseases, blights, and wildlife tampering. To ensure proper growth and survival, mature trees need regular watering, all the way up until the very first snow fall.

When Do Trees Need to Be Pruned?

The prime time to prune trees happens to be coming up very soon! Pruning is vital to tree growth and overall tree health, as it promotes vigorous, healthy branch growth come spring and summer. The best time to prune trees is in the coldest part of the season, before the first snow falls. By this time, trees are fully in their dormancy stage.

Can I Prune My Trees Myself?

It is not wise to prune trees on your own. Several factors go into the process of tree pruning, so it requires extensive training and experience, as well as professional tools and resources to implement the job safely and effectively. Attempting to prune your trees can put you at risk of having an accident or being seriously injured, and incorrect pruning can harm your trees. Even small trees that do not require the use of a ladder should not be pruned by anyone but a trained professional.

Should I Top My Trees in Fall?

Tree topping also goes by the names, “tipping”, “hat-racking”, “heading”, and “rounding over.” Sadly, many people believe that tree topping is an effective form of pruning. The truth is that it is not an acceptable technique at all. In fact, tree topping is the most harmful tree care practice used for pruning trees. It can cause a long list of damage and health decline, including bark and tissue decay, sunburn, epicormic sprouting, pest infestations, and more.

Can I Plant a Tree in Fall?

The arborvitae industry standard suggests planting trees in the fall or early spring. The reason why the rule of thumb is to plant trees in spring or fall is because trees are in their dormant stage during these times. During dormancy, trees require less water, sunlight, and nutrients. This means their growth is significantly decelerated, making it easier for healthy root development. Dormancy and cool temperatures are the reason why spring and fall continue to be the best times to plant trees. These seasons are more likely to produce a healthy, mature tree.

Do your trees look like they could use some TLC this Fall? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients all throughout the central parts of the state.

You Should Also Read:

How to Mulch Around a Tree
Fundamental Industry Advice for Tree Pruning
Top Advantages of Choosing Professional Tree Service

How to Mulch Around a Tree

Posted on April 5, 2021 by Completetree

Did you know that mulching is one of the most effective and beneficial method of tree care? In fact, properly mulching your landscaping trees can promote healthier, longer-lasting trees. Continue reading to learn the correct method of laying mulch around your landscaping trees, and where you can get affordable help with Indianapolis tree care near you.

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Spring is the Right Time to Re-Mulch Trees

When applied improperly, mulch can have negative effects on a tree’s health. For this reason, proper mulching methods are important, and should be practiced every spring. And since spring is here, it is time to start thinking about your seasonal tree care needs, including new mulch! Just a quick note, but mulching is not just a spring tree care task; it is also important to mulch your trees in the winter too! Get started in the Spring as soon as the ground has fully thawed. In the fall, you will wait until temperatures are pre-freezing, and then lay your mulch before the first winter front arrives.

Professional-Level Tree Mulching Advice

When it comes to mulching your trees, it is recommended to use organic mulch. Although inorganic mulch is tempting since it doesn’t need to be replenished as often, the benefits derived from organic materials and decomposition outweigh the benefits of using inorganic mulch. In fact, most arborists prefer to use an organic product.

When mulching your trees, keep in mind that using too much can actually be detrimental. Over-mulching can lead to tree stress, excessive ground moisture, root rot, tree and bark diseases, insect and rodent infestations, tree girdling, reduced air penetration, unbalanced soil pH, and more. To be safe, keep mulch depths between 2 and 4 inches.

Be sure to check the project area for adequate water drainage before applying mulch. If the water drainage is poor, then too much mulch may lead to many of the above-mentioned tree problems. Try using less mulch for areas with inadequate drainage.

Before applying new mulch over existing mulch, first measure the depth to prevent over-mulching. If the depth is still 2 to 4 inches, do not apply new mulch. Instead, use a rake to release the top matted layers and refresh the look of the mulch. If faded, visit your local gardening store for a spray-on, water-soluble, vegetable-based dye to brighten up the color. Also, be sure to also spread out any piles that may have built-up against the tree trunk. The base of the tree should be exposed.

Do you need professional Indianapolis tree care or tree assistance? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis Indiana tree services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

You Should Also Read:

The Common Process of Tree Fertilization
Get Spring Tree Service Deals in Indianapolis at Complete Tree Care
How to Prepare Your Trees for Spring Weather Conditions

Facts About Over-Watering and Under-Watering Trees

Posted on May 13, 2020 by Completetree

Unlike our own species, trees do have voices they can use to tell us they need more water or have had enough. For this reason, it is important to be the voice of trees, and learn what signs they exhibit to let us know their watering needs. Continue reading to learn the common signs of over-watered and under-watered trees, and what you can do to help a suffering tree.

Tree Watering Basics

The general rule of thumb for water trees varies depending on the age, species, condition, and location of a tree. For instance, newly-planted and transplanted trees should be watered regularly enough so that the top 12 inches of soil remains moist to the touch. This averages out to around 4 to 8 gallons per week. Mature trees needn’t regular watering, and instead, should just be properly mulched and watered during dry spells. For sick trees, watering should be increased, or as instructed by a licensed arborist.

Since tree watering needs vary on species, location, climate, season, and more, there is really no way of establishing a universal rule of thumb. However, you can learn how to spot the signs of over-watering and under-watering a tree. This knowledge can help you take better care of your trees, and respond to nutritional issues early on, before they can turn fatal for your trees.

Signs of an Over-Watered Tree:

☙ The base of the tree is always wet to the touch. Although the mulch bed surrounding the base of the tree should retain moisture at all times, there should also be a period of the day when the mulch is dry on top. If the mulch is always wet, even when other mulch beds and tree bases are dry, it could mean it has been given too much water.

☙ Blooms do not grow to size. If the blooms, flowers, or fruits on your tree do not fully-bloom, and instead wither and drop, it could mean that they are getting too much water. If the blooms turn light green or yellow in color, it could also mean over-watering.

☙ Green leaves are fragile and break off. If your tree sprouts foliage that is green, yet break off easily to the touch, it could be there is an over-watering issue. If you notice a pile of green leaves around the base of your tree, it may signify the same issue.

Signs of an Under-Watered Tree:

The signs of an under-watered tree are quite similar to those of an over-watered tree. So be sure you look closely to see the difference. Common signs include:

☙ Leaf Wilting or Curling
☙ Browning Edges or Tips on Leaves
☙ Thin or Thinning Canopy
☙ Under-Sized Leaves
☙ Off-Color Leaves
☙ Premature Fall Color Changing

☛ QUICK TIP: Can you stick a screwdriver into the ground below your tree? If you cannot do so easily or at all, your tree definitely needs more water!

Indianapolis Tree Service Professionals Who Can Help

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional Indianapolis tree service you can trust. We serve all of Central Indiana with a wide range of skilled tree removal and tree care services, for both residential and commercial properties. Whether you need a single tree removed, or simply require routine tree service, like trimming or pruning, we can deliver prompt and professional service at a fair price. Request a free estimate, today.

Essential Tree Care Tips to Get Your Spring Started

Posted on March 26, 2020 by Completetree

Be sure you know exactly how to manage your landscaping trees this spring with these vital tree care reminders!

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Critical Root Zone (CRZ)

The critical root zone of a tree is also referred to as a “tree protection zone.” Essentially, it is an invisible or imaginary circle that runs along or just outside the dripline of a tree. This area is important to a tree because it is where the most critical tree roots are located beneath the ground. That is why it is also called a “protection” zone. These are the roots that require the most protection and care. Adequate mulching is an effective method for protecting your tree’s critical root zone. In fact, in terms of tree health, mulch is just as important as fertilizer and water.

Watering

One of the most important parts of taking care of your trees is to make sure they have adequate water. This is especially true for newly planted trees and young trees. After a tree is planted, it is important to water it immediately, then continue watering it regularly over the next two years. Mature trees only require watering during periods of drought, when the soil feels dry to the touch. Keep in mind that too much water can be just as harmful. So, it is important to use just the right amount to keep your trees in good health. To check, use your garden trowel to penetrate the soil 4 to 6 inches deep, then pry the soil back and feel the dampness of the soil.

Mulching

Laying mulch around the base of your trees is a highly effective method of supporting healthy growth and prolonging their life. Although you do not need to re-mulch every week, it is important to check on your mulch beds every day to ensure they are still doing their job. Mulch helps retain moisture and block out excess heat and UV exposure. This helps to keep a tree in good health. If the mulch seems low, put down another layer. Apply new mulch entirely, every year. The rule of thumb when it comes to proper mulching is to keep layers between 2 and 4 inches deep, and at least 6 inches from the base of the trunk.

Staking

See our recent blog, “How to Prepare Your Trees for Spring Weather Conditions” to learn all your options for staking a tree. From there, you can better determine which type of supplementary structural support or protection your landscaping trees need to survive the season. Common industry methods include cabling and bracing, propping, guying, and of course, staking. Talk to your local tree care specialist about tree staking methods and advice when in doubt. They have the tools, training, and knowledge to guide you in the direction of healthy tree care.

Fertilizing

Tree fertilization helps to make up for any nutrient deficiencies that might be at play. It provides added nutrients, which in turn help a tree grow strong and healthy, and thus, live much longer. Not only does this help a tree look beautiful and deep in color, it gives the tree durability and an increased resistance to inclement weather, disease, pests, nuisance wildlife, and other forms of environmental bearings.

Trimming and Pruning

One of the most important tree services you can outsource for your landscape is pruning. Not only does pruning promote healthy growth, it also encourages flowering and fruit production, making prettier and more profitable trees. In addition to pruning, tree trimming is a highly beneficial, and often times quite necessary, tree service that is something to consider for your property. Tree trimming helps control overgrown limbs and canopies that can pose potential dangers and obstructions.

Professional Tree Care Service for Indianapolis

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional Indianapolis tree service you can trust. We are experienced tree care technicians that can resolve your tree problems, regardless of your projects size or scope. We offer a wide range of tree removal and tree services, for both residential and commercial properties. We even offer free estimates and free tree care advice!